BREAKING: Ben Simmons requesting trade from 76ers

The Ben Simmons saga trends on. Simmons informed the Philadelphia 76ers’ front office that he no longer wants to remain with the franchise that drafted him in 2017. Simmons met with Josh Harris, Daryl Morey, Elton Brand, and Doc Rivers on the decision last week in Los Angeles.

The Sixers have unsuccessfully attempted to trade the 3x All-Star numerous times. It’s no longer viable that Simmons lands on a contending roster considering his value diminishing and lack of commitment to a team. His value is complicated and his lack of aggressiveness played a factor in the drop. Simmons has four-years, $147 million remaining on his current deal.

The 1983 champions do not want to trade Simmons to just to move on from him, they’re expecting an All-Star caliber player in return. The 76ers’ rotation combines of Joel Embiid and a cast of shooters and any trade has to place them in a better position to win the title. The Sixers has a standout candidate to replace some of Simmons minutes in Tyrese Maxey. They will ultimately pursue fellow clients of Simmons’ agent Rich Paul.

The Sixers publicly tried to trade Ben Simmons last season in a deal for James Harden that never progressed. Since a drought of significant performances in the postseason, Simmons is likely to be dealt in the coming weeks. Last campaign, Simmons was in the running for DPOY, was named to the All-Star team, and racked up 14.3 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 6.9 assists. But when his performance mattered the most, Simmons shortcomings on offense narrowed the championship window.

Simmons has a handful of teams on his radar, but not with substantial contending ability. He reportedly wishes for a trade to a California franchise where he most recently purchased a home. Is Simmons playing the victim and is the case identical to James Harden’s Houston departure?